nDreams – Aardvark Swift Case Study

Find out how Aardvark Swift successfully filled a VFX role which had been open for two years!

nDreams are the UK’s largest developer and publisher who’re solely focused on creating virtual reality games and experiences!

Founded in 2006, nDreams quickly established themselves as a leading publisher on Playstation Home and as a developer of several major alternate reality games. However, their whole world flipped in 2013 when they first got their hands on an Oculus Rift. From then on they’ve been completely focused on developing cutting edge VR games, such as the breath-taking Perfect, and brawler Bloody Zombies, and haven’t looked back since.

The assignment

The Farnborough-based studio had been trying to recruit a VFX artist for almost two years, but struggled to find that perfect candidate with a skill set that is already considered rare.

Our approach

The VR studio approached us during our Search for a Star competition, which highlights student talent across Europe. Through the competition we are continuously in contact with the best programming, art, animation and VFX graduates around!

It was through the competition that we were able to introduce nDreams to Niels, a VFX student with a programming background from Belgium. The VFX vacancy had previously been for a more experienced artist, but nDreams were so impressed with Niels’ competition work and the calibre of his portfolio, that they offered him the role soon after first meeting him.

What nDreams had to say

“Niels represented the kind of standout star we’re looking for, made possible through the Search for a Star competition.” says Glenn Brace, Art Director. “The combination of technical prowess and creative flair, all articulated with such a personable and humble mentality, made it very hard not to pay attention to Niels’ achievements.”

“Aardvark Swift have given some structure as a way for grads with essential skill sets to have their portfolios reviewed by employers.” says Tamsin O’Luanaigh, Talent Director. “Search for a Star is a great opportunity for students and gives them a chance to receive feedback directly from industry leaders, discovering what is needed to break into the industry.”

The outcome

Niels went on to win the VFX branch of the competition and is now relocating to England to start his career off in the games industry with nDreams!

Employing a graduate is an excellent way to bring new ideas and energy to a company and nDreams are excited to have such a promising young artist join their team, and look forward to training him to fit the company’s needs!